IGNOU Exam Centre Change 2026: Why You Can't Change Exam Centres (But Can Change Study Centres)

One of the most common searches during TEE season is "how to change IGNOU exam centre". Here is the definitive truth for 2026: once you have successfully submitted your IGNOU examination form and selected an exam centre, you generally cannot change it. IGNOU operates on a first-come, first-served basis for exam centre seating capacity. However, you can change your Study Centre and Regional Centre seamlessly. This post breaks down the difference and provides a step-by-step walkthrough.

What's the Difference Between Exam Centre and Study Centre?

To navigate IGNOU's infrastructure, you must understand the distinction between these two entities:

When filling out your exam form for the June or December TEE, you are allowed to choose any exam centre across India, regardless of where your Study Centre is located. If you live in Gujarat but are working in New Delhi during exam month, you can simply select a New Delhi exam centre in your form.

Why IGNOU Doesn't Allow Exam Centre Changes

Once the TEE form is submitted and the fee is paid, the system allocates a seat, generates an enrollment node, and prepares the physical OMR/answer sheets for that specific location. Allowing post-submission changes would create logistical nightmares regarding seating capacity and secure question paper distribution.

What's the Exception?

Very rarely, if IGNOU cancels a specific exam centre due to administrative issues, they will automatically relocate affected students and issue a revised hall ticket. There is no self-service option to switch centres on request.

How to Change Your IGNOU Study Centre Online (2026)

If you have relocated permanently or are unsatisfied with your current Study Centre, you can change it entirely online through the Samarth portal:

1. Log in to IGNOU Samarth: Visit ignou.samarth.edu.in and log in using your Enrollment Number and password.
2. Navigate to Student Services: On the left-hand dashboard menu, click on Services.
3. Select Centre Change: Scroll down to find the option labeled "Change of Study Centre" or "Change of Regional Centre".
4. Initiate request: Click on "Click here to apply".
5. Select new centre: You will see your current details. Select your new preferred Regional Centre and the new Study Centre from the dropdown menus. Not all Study Centres offer all programmes - the dropdown will only show centres that host your specific degree.
6. Submit: Confirm your selection and submit the request.

Important Rules for Study Centre Transfer

• Assignment status: Do not apply for a Study Centre change if you have recently submitted assignments and the marks are not yet updated on your grade card. The transfer process can cause your pending assignments to be lost in transit between centres.
• Approval time: It typically takes 15 to 30 days for the university to approve the change and update your profile.
• Practical exams: If you change your centre right before practical exams, you must coordinate carefully with the new centre to ensure you are included in their batch lists.

📋 Don't forget to download your IGNOU admit card (hall ticket) before the exam. Check the datesheet for exam dates.